Emmerdale actress Paula Tilbrook sadly dies aged 89
She played Betty Eagleton on the soap for 21 years!
Popular actress Paula Tilbrook, who played the role of Betty Eagleton on ITV soap Emmerdale for a massive 21 years, has sadly passed away at the age of 89.
News of Paula's sad passing was announced on theatre website The Stage on Wednesday 15th July, with reports suggesting she died peacefully a number of months ago at her home, surrounded by her beloved family.
According to Entertainment Daily, Paula's family released a statement reading, "The family of Paula Tilbrook are sad to confirm the peaceful passing of their beloved Paula.
"She died of natural causes a few months ago at home with her loved ones beside her. The family respectfully requests privacy at this difficult time."
Paula joined the cast of Emmerdale back in 1994, playing the role of popular character Betty until 2015, picking up a number of high-profile storylines along the way.
Paula made the decision to retire in 2015, with her final scenes as Betty airing later that year in May. However, the actress made a brief comeback to the soap for a Christmas Day special in 2015, appearing via a video chat to speak to her former villagers.
Although her role in Emmerdale is her most famous, Paula also appeared in Coronation Street as Estelle Plimpton, and other popular shows such as Open All Hours, Last of the Summer Wine, and Tales of the Unexpected.
Our thoughts are with Paula's family and friends at this sad time.